Incidence Pattern, Antibiotic Susceptibility Pattern and Associated Risk Factors of Bacterial Uropathogens Among...

Area of Science:

• Medical Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs) represent a significant public health challenge globally and in Pakistan.
• Rising antibiotic resistance among uropathogens severely limits effective treatment options.
• Understanding local incidence and resistance patterns is crucial for developing targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence patterns of uropathogens causing UTIs in the general population.
• To analyze the antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of isolated uropathogens.
• To identify risk factors associated with UTI development.

Main Methods:

• A laboratory-based cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2020 to March 2021.
• Urine samples were cultured, and bacterial isolates were identified and tested for antimicrobial susceptibility.
• Socio-demographic data, clinical features, and potential risk factors were collected via a structured questionnaire.

Main Results:

• A high prevalence of 65.1% (299/459) positive urine cultures was observed.
• Gram-negative bacteria predominated (76.9%), with *Escherichia coli* being the most common isolate (48.8%).
• Significant antibiotic resistance was noted, particularly *E. coli*'s susceptibility to cefoperazone and imipenem, while most gram-negative isolates were resistant to ampicillin. Age, income, and prior hospitalization were significant risk factors.

Conclusions:

• UTI poses a substantial health burden in the study region, with a high prevalence rate of 65%.
• Widespread antibiotic resistance among uropathogens necessitates treatment strategies guided by susceptibility testing.
• Public education on UTI transmission and control is essential for effective management.